At the northern end of Bondi Beach, a huge wrap- around veranda buzzes with beachgoers and locals relaxing at the end of a long, hot day. “The Rats,” more formally known as the North Bondi Returned Soldiers League Club, has uninterrupted views of the entire beach, and a bird’s-eye view of the bronzed surfers and lifeguards that are so Bondi.
Located on the Bay Street Ferry wharf, the Australian 18 Footers League Club’s floor-to-ceiling windows give a panoramic view of Double Bay. Relax in one of the huge lounges and watch the play of sunlight on water, or follow the 18 Footer skiffs as they skim down the harbor.
The Coast Golf Club sits in the midst of a green sanctuary of courses clinging to a rugged coastline at Little Bay, less than 8 miles (12 km) from the city. The members-only St Michaels and NSW Golf clubs are nearby, but at The Coast you can enjoy a quiet afternoon drink with scenic views of the coastline.
Sydney Flying Squadron’s huge deck over Milsons Point captures the evening sun and makes it the perfect place for a pre-dinner drink. On a Saturday in summer, join the cruise which follows the skiffs around the harbor. Every fourth Sunday of the month is a little livelier with “Jazz at the Squaddy.” International visitors can sign into a club with identification, and club prices ensure a cold Aussie beer impacts only lightly on the traveling budget.
Practical Information
Australian 18 Footers League Club Double Bay; Watsons Bay ferry from Circular Quay;
Coast Golf Club Little Bay; bus 392 or 399 from Circular Quay;
North Bondi RSL Club North Bondi; bus 380 from Circular Quay;
Sydney Flying Squadron Milsons Point; Milsons Point ferry from Circular Quay;